Universal hotel fees and charges

Question

I will be going to universal dockside inn and suites this May. I booked through attraction tickets direct and paid in full.

I just wanted to check whether there are any additional fees/ taxs I will need to pay at check in?

Also will there be a nightly hold on my card/ how much?

Thank you

Answer

When staying at Universal’s Dockside Inn and Suites in Orlando, there are a few important points regarding fees, taxes, and card holds to keep in mind, even if you booked and paid in full through a third-party or direct attraction tickets site.

1. Taxes and Resort Fees:

Even if your room rate is prepaid, Florida sales tax and hotel occupancy tax are generally applied to all hotel stays. At Universal hotels, this is typically around 6–7% for sales tax and 6–7% for resort/hotel tax, depending on the current rates in Orange County. These taxes are usually added to your reservation automatically if booking through Universal’s website, but it’s always good to double-check your confirmation.
Dockside Inn is considered a value resort, and unlike some Universal deluxe resorts, there is no additional daily resort fee. So you should not be charged extra daily fees for amenities beyond your room rate and taxes.

2. Incidentals / Card Holds:

Upon check-in, Universal typically places a nightly hold on your credit or debit card to cover incidentals (such as food, merchandise, or damage). For Dockside Inn, this hold is usually around $50–$100 per night, but it can vary depending on your reservation and payment method. This is not an actual charge; it’s just a temporary authorization that will be released a few days after check-out if no charges are incurred.
If you prepaid your stay and will not be using your room key for purchases, you can request that the hold be adjusted, though the hotel may still keep a small authorization for safety.

3. Additional Notes:

If you booked through a third-party site, make sure your reservation clearly shows taxes included or excluded, as some sites prepay only the room and taxes may still be collected at check-in.
Always carry a credit card at check-in, even if paid in full, for incidentals and security holds.

In summary, for Dockside Inn and Suites:

Prepaid room rate covers your stay, but applicable state and hotel taxes may still apply.
No daily resort fee is charged at Dockside Inn.
Expect a nightly card hold for incidentals, usually $50–$100 per night.

Checking your confirmation and speaking to the front desk upon arrival can clarify exact amounts for your specific booking.